Used Gear

[ducklite]

How many of you buy used gear?

I won't buy a used body, but I buy my more expensive lenses used.

The guy I buy my gear from (I'd love to mention by name but not sure if it's allowed) is fantastic and offers a cash abck warrantly for any reason for up to 30 days. I've never met him or been to his shop, I was refered to him by a friend and have been thrilled with his pricing and service. He'll take the time to talk to you about what your needs are an make recomendations. He talked me out of spending more money than I needed to a couple of times and buying a less expensive item instead--how many sales people do that?

Anyhow, I'm wondering how many others buy used gear? I figure I've saved close to $1000 in the past three years buying "gently used" over brand new.

 

[handicap18]

I bought a used lens from keh.com. A Tamron 90mm f/2.8 SP Macro. It was listed in excellent condition and came with both endcaps. I got it for about $100 less than brand new and it is is much better condition than what they rated it. It looked like new to me and its IQ is supurb.

 

[ducklite]

All of my used lenses have come with both end caps, the original bag or hardcase, box (sometimes the UPC symbol was missing), and lens hood.

I get my gear from Allen's Camera in Levittown, PA. (Mods, feel free to remove if not allowed) and he's terrific to deal with. He's very, very honest. If you google him there are a ton of positive reviews. Plus if it's being shipped out of state there's no tax, and his shipping charges are maybe $1 over the actual cost--enough to cover the box, tape, and packing peanuts which IMHO is valid.

 

[jann1033]

All of my used lenses have come with both end caps, the original bag or hardcase, box (sometimes the UPC symbol was missing), and lens hood.

I get my gear from Allen's Camera in Levittown, PA. (Mods, feel free to remove if not allowed) and he's terrific to deal with. He's very, very honest. If you google him there are a ton of positive reviews. Plus if it's being shipped out of state there's no tax, and his shipping charges are maybe $1 over the actual cost--enough to cover the box, tape, and packing peanuts which IMHO is valid.

i bought a used lens once off ebay and it was in great condition( a kit lens for $60 for my rebel xt so guess i'm not the only one who never uses it ) i've looked for used when i bought new but usually i can't find what i want or it's so close in price i'd rather pay a few dollars more and get the yr or so warranty. i think i need to get less popular items to make it worthwhile( or check more often )

 

[We-Luv-Disney]

I have only purchased one used lens off eBay. My old Canon 28-135 IS, it was in perfect shape and I got a great deal. Overall I think its safe to purchase used lens, although it does seem like an easy way for someone to off load a ill focusing lens. I would trust a reseller like B+H before the auction site.

 

[minie_meese]

I purchased 2 used lenses from bhphoto - a Tamron 28-75 and a Canon L 70-200. Both were in great condition - both came in their original boxes and had all of the original paperwork. I have no complaints and saved quite a bit.

 

[Miss Kelly]

My 85mm is used. It came in fantastic shape. I also buy a lot of my Silverlake Backdrops used. They have a great resale value.